Colonel (Ret.) Robert Arthur “Bob” Mangum, age 90, died peacefully on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at Patriots Colony at Williamsburg, surrounded by his loving family. A lifelong Hampton Roads resident, Bob was born near Nebo, North Carolina on September 21, 1935, to Arthur and Mallie (Cowan) Mangum, and grew up in Newport News, Virginia.
A proud graduate of Warwick High School, Bob went on to earn both Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). On June 21, 1958, he married his high school sweetheart, Cary Davidson, at Hilton Presbyterian Church — beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, adventure, and laughter.
Bob lived life with what he often called “reckless abandon.” Whether as an athlete at Warwick High and VPI, a student, a pilot, soldier, loving husband, or devoted father, he poured himself completely into every endeavor. His boundless energy, humor, and generosity of spirit made him unforgettable to everyone who knew him. Quick with a story, a laugh, or a helping hand, Bob never met a stranger.
During his distinguished Army career, Bob served multiple tours in Vietnam and Germany as an Army Aviator and Acquisition professional. He retired in 1984 at Fort Eustis, Virginia after more than 25 years of dedicated service to his country. Following his military career, he continued to make his mark in the aviation industry as the Hampton Roads representative for Hughes Helicopter, later McDonnell Douglas, and then The Boeing Company.
Bob was deeply involved in his community and his alma mater. He coached numerous youth sports teams for each of his kids, was an active supporter of the Virginia Tech Alumni Association and Corps of Cadets and contributed to many aviation and local civic organizations. His leadership and enthusiasm inspired all who worked and played alongside him.
He is survived by his sisters, Joy Oliver of Viera, Florida and Sharon Bertsch of Cocoa, Florida; his children, Lieutenant General (Ret.) Kevin (Angel) Mangum, Keith (Katherine) Mangum, and Katherine Mangum; and his beloved grandchildren, Captain Anela (Seamus Murray) Mangum and Ned Mangum.
A celebration of Bob’s remarkable life will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Bucktrout of Williamsburg, 4124 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, VA.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Night Stalker Foundation or to Virginia Tech’s Corps of Cadets program in Bob’s honor.
